Common Household Cleaners Are Creating Mutant Superbugs

[Guest guest]

Common Household Cleaners Are Creating Mutant Superbugs

We all know the overuse of antibiotics can create drug resistant bacteria, but a

new study has confirmed that antibiotics aren't the only worry. Put down the

Clorox wipes and walk away from the coffee table, now!

Scientists at the National University of Ireland tested the effectiveness of a

common hospital and home disinfectant, benzalkonium chloride (BKC) on a easily

found pathogen, pseudomonas aeruginosa. The pathogen tends to infect those

already weakened by illness.

What they found is that the pathogen will grow stronger when exposed repeatedly

to small amounts of disinfectant. So if you skimp out on how much Pine-Sol you

add to your mopping bucket, you may be turning your home into a superbug petri

dish.

While Fleming isn't saying we shouldn't use disinfectants, he does say they need

to be used responsibly. Use the amount directed on the bottle and be aware that

diluted disinfectant can build up on a surface, which then encourages the

bacteria's growth. " For heaven's sake, rotate your disinfectant even if you like

the smell and it's cheap, to prevent a build-up of residue "

Fleming's report is published in January's Microbiology.

http://io9.com/5436218/common-household-cleaners-are-creating-mutant-superbugs